This in from the IW Green party’s prospective parliamentary candidate, Vix Lowthion. Ed
The Common’s Education Committee this week announced that all state primary and secondary schools should have to teach age-appropriate Relationships and Sex Education – though parents will still have the ability to ‘opt out’ if they deem it necessary.
40% of schools could do better
An OFSTED report in 2013 labelled 40% of schools as requiring improvement in their teaching of health and social education.
Vix says,
“Education in our schools should not be limited to subject knowledge and exams. Our young people must be equipped to be positive and successful adults – and to this end, quality relationships and social education is paramount.
“I was in charge of PSHE and SRE in a large secondary school for a number of years. Young people need the knowledge and skills taught in these non-academic subjects, and it is only by making them statutory can they be given the value and status they deserve.
“Health, social and relationships education shouldn’t be seen as a luxury add on – they are crucial for our safety and future happiness.”
Learning about relationships, respect and responsibilities
Green Party MP Caroline Lucas added,
“PSHE is about relationships, respect and responsibilities.
“It’s about fit-for-purpose, age-appropriate whole person education and it’s more important than ever.
“Parents, pupils and teachers back it – so it’s fantastic that the Education Committee has also recognised the need.”
Image: © With kind permission of Lucy Boynton
